1. Why might Christianity have benefited from the push towards modernization and economic growth and eventually democracy?
Christianity might have benefited from the push towards modernization and economic growth and democracy because they were the ones who put a great effort in providing provisions for the people. As a result, the people started look at Christianity in a positive aspect. As a result, numerous people became devoted to Christianity for their good- doings.
2. What did churches offer that might have attracted followers during this time of tremendous change in South Korea?
Churches offered numerous activities like sponsoring youth groups, Bible study classes and social events for its members, including music and sports activities. It tells its people to put effort into spreading the good, as in the religion of Christianity. Furthermore, the idea of Christianity seemed to fit and help the Korean people who are undergoing a very fast development.
Reading number and Title
Period being addressed
Three major (the power of three, sometimes you get two sometimes four) points drawn from this period, Number of Christians
1. Origins of the Korean Church
1592-1784
Christianity came through to Korea by the Japanese invasion. Wasn't an big impact and it was spread by Korean man who went to China to bring back books, info, and images about Christianity.
2. Growth of Christianity
1780-1790
Took root in Joseon Kingdom/dynasty. When it J.D. came to power, Buddhism was less popular than Christianity. Buddhists left to worship in remote areas. The leaders emphasized strict intellecutual points by Confucianism. Christianity was popular among poor people. Their teachings:equality of all people before God. Many women made up large part of Christian society. No more concubines and several marriages.
3. Intro to Protestantism.
1880-1910
1870s, Scottish missionaries studied Korean and translated the texts and sold it to the Korean merchants. 1884, Protestant missionary gained access to Korea by being a physician to the US delegation(disguise). Protestant community grew in 1912 when American missionary described it's assets that included schools, med school ,hospital, orphanage, and property worth $1 million. Lower classes were able to be open to Christian beliefs because hangul can be just listened to without writing.
In Han Fei's ideal state what is the supreme governing authority, the will of the ruler or the law?
The law is the supreme governing authority according to Han Fei.
2. What are the "Two Handles" and how important are they to a legalist state? Why must the sovereign never surrender control over the two handles?
The "Two Handles" are punishment and reward. The government or the monarch rules with both of these handles. He punishes those who disobey the law with punishment despite their position, and he rewards those who follow the law. If the soverign let's control of the two handles, the bike will fall, and in this case the country. Those who disobey laws and have a higher class in society such as nobles will take control of the nation and corrupt the government.
3. What roles do individuality and private initiative play in Han Fei's ideal state?
In Legalism, individuality does not exist. Society is run by law alone, so there is no room for individuality of the monarch or noble.
4. Why do you think Legalism appealed to some people?
Legalism would have appealed to people that have little social equality. Legalism reassures the idea of equality and freedom among everyone including the low class. It gives them a chance to participate in the government and give equal punishment to everyone who disobeys the law.
5. Imagine a series of conversations among a Daoist, a Confucian, and a Legalist. How would each respond on the following issues: What is the purpose of good government? What role does morality play in formulating law? What are the qualities of a superior ruler? The proposition "Might makes right."
- A Confucian would say that a government must be a good model for society. The government should enforce the law and the government themselves should follow the law. When formulating the law, it should be based on morality and should be enforced and followed.
- A Daoist would suggest that the government and its laws should be based on the flow and peace. However they might also suggest that if society itself goes with the flow, then a government to run society might not be necessary.
- A Legalist might say that the government is based on the "Two handles". The government should punish the ones who break the law and reward those who don't. Legalists will demand for social equality and the laws should be based on the "Two handles". If there was a government were based on Legalist ideas, the government should be strong and always open minded. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Homework due October 6: Essential Quotes of Taoism
In Lectures on the Tao Teh Ching, Lao-Tzu says, that, "The mystery of the Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels". Does this quote have an equivalent to in Christianity? Are there other parts of the Tao Teh Ching that remind you of Christian ideals?
I find that the "mystery of Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels" is similar to the Christian idea of Heaven. I find the line "That which has a name is the Mother of all things" is similar to the idea of Mother Mary in Christianity. However in Taoism, it refers to Nature, but in Christianity, the mother of Jesus and all of mankind.
See Passage 2, "Not honoring men....Not wanting rare things...Not paying attention..." How are does this help one understand how Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism found common ground and were not mutually exclusive belief systems?
The first part "not honoring men" referes to how Confucianist value the idea of respect and honor to one another. The second refers to Buddhism, because Buddhists believe that to desire is to suffer. The last part talks about Taoism and how Taoists believe that they should go with the Tao or the way. Although they have different philopsophies, they call from the same ground idea that a true human will purify himself from desire and respect one another.
In Passage 2, what do you think is meant by the lines, "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones"?
The phrase "relaxing the mind" refers to the Taoist way to find the Inner Peace and Inner Nature. It also is similar to the Buddhist idea of finding peace in one's mind to free yourself from desire of wanting things, just like the phrase "gentling the will". "Reinforcing the abdomen" and "strengthening the bones" is a Confucianist philosophy of how Confucianist should build their mind up with new knowledge to support the knowledge they know already.
Consider the last three entries from D.C. Lau's Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu describes government. How is this ideal different from Confucius' ideal? What present day system of government are you reminded of when you read this section? Do you think this is a good system? Explain.
Lao Tzu believes that the government should be carefree and not have many rules for society to follow because things will go with the flow. However, that's not the way things work ideally because it would only lead to chaos and more political problems like dictatorship. However if all the people of society were Taoists, then the Taoist idea of a "free" government might work. In Confucianist society, the government must be the model for the people. Without the government up to par, the people won't be able to trust the government.
Regarding the third treasure that Lao Tzu describes, what do you think is his message? Do you agree? What does this say about people who are ambitious?
Lao Tzu believes that people who are modest and patient about their goals are more likely to achieve it than those who have the same goal but are mean to other people about it because they want their success to themselves. I agree with this because it's like the idea of karma. What comes around goes around. People who do bad deeds to achieve their goal is likely to acieve it and then fall more quickly than someone who's kind and patient who help people along the way on their journey to success. Not all ambitious people are bad. There are some that are kind and patient and at the same time ambitious, but most of the time the more you want something, the more ambitious you get, and sometimes you might to bad deeds.
Similarities:
- They give a guideline to the way of life.
- It gives people security in their faith.
Significance:
- It is a guideline to how to live ones life and what to follow.
- It opens ones mind to other opinions using logic.
- Both reveal the characteristics of a nation's people.
THE VIDEO IS ON CECILIA'S PAGE :DD
Project: (With Cecilia)
How does your religion impact your identity? Be sure to describe your journey (even if it is on-going).
- Young age : didn't know the real importance of our Religion.
- Now, we are starting to understand the significance of the Catholicism
- How we feel about our religion.
How does your religion impact your family?
- My grandmother
- Unity
How does your religion impact your society (and even the world)?
The Tao of Pooh Questions: 1. What is the significance of the painting Hoff describes named The Vinegar Tasters? (2)
The painting “The Vinegar of Tasters” has lots of meaning in it. It represents “Three Teaching” from the Three Masters of China, K’ung Fu-tse, Buddha, and Lao-tse. In the painting, the vinegar represents the ‘Essence of Life.’ All three masters had different reactions after they tasted the vinegar, Confucius had a sour look, Buddha had a bitter look. Lao-tse, however, had a smile on his face because he saw the harmony between the Earth and Heaven. 2. What is the theme of life according to Hoff’s interpretation of Taoism? (5-6)
The theme of life according to Hoff’s interpretation of Taoism is happiness. It is because, from the Taoism point of view, the natural result of living with harmony is happiness. 3. How does Hoff explain the “uncarved block” metaphor? (10)
Hoff explain the “uncarved block”,P’u, metaphor by using Pooh’s name. He told us that they will not to try too hard or explain too much because it will just make us more confuse things. 4. What is the secret message of the “uncarved block?” (2
The secret message of the “uncarved block” is simplicity. Do not make the things complicated but think simply. 5. What was the main conflict between the Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff? (24)
The main conflict between the Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff was that Taoists saw Confucianists as a group of people who ruin their life in studies. 6. Which of Milne’s characters represent Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff?
Owl, Rabbit, and Eeyore represents Confucianists. It is because they study Knowledge for the Sake of knowledge. It means that there are no true meaning to learn something what is shown on the outside. Pooh represents Taoist because he has such a simple mind and thinking. 7. What is Hoff’s opinion of Confucianist scholars? (26)
Hoff’s opinion of Confucianist scholars is that he believes Confucianist scholars study the Knowledge for the sake of Knowledge, and do not share their learnings. They use difficult and long words in order to show people that they are intellectual. 8. What does Hoff say about knowledge vs. experience? (29)
Hoff says that knowledge and experience is not the same thing. He says that experience is much important than the knowledge because knowledge is not a necessary value. 9. What do most scholars blame for problems in the world? Why isn’t it justified? (32)
The scholars blame ignorance, or the “Uncarved Block”. The “ignorant” problems are caused by its own shortsightedness or lack of attention. 10. What is the difference between “cleverness” and “Inner Nature?” (38)
Cleverness has to do with gathered knowledge that deals with mechanics. However, Inner Nature has to do with the depth of understanding something. 11.Why is it important to discern your own Inner Nature? (41)
Not knowing your own Inner Nature could mean that you’ll mistakes in your life that aren’t easy to fix, such as marrying the wrong person. 12.Explain Hoff’s interpretation of the Chinese quote: “One disease, long life; No disease, short life.” (48)
Hoff claims that if someone knows their weakness and flaws, they’ll move on with their lives, and they know what to do when those flaws and weaknesses become a problem. However, if someone tries to pretend to be perfect, then eventually, those neglected flaws and weaknesses will cause stress and worries where you can’t take care of your problems or yourself. 13.What does Hoff mean when he states that we must learn to “work with Things As They Are?” (50)
When he says that, he means that you shouldn’t question things just to get empty answers, so you should just go with the flow. 14.What happens to people who do not listen to their Inner Nature? (57)
If people listen to their brain’s opinions which can be decieved, you are bound to make a mistake and make your life harder than it should be. However, if you listen to your Inner Nature, you’ll know what choices you should make, and your life will be much happier. 15.What is the Way of Self-Reliance? (57-8)
The Way of Self-Reliance has to do with how much we know about us, what’s best for us, and what we want to do with the good and bad parts of us. 16.How can we change ourselves effectively through the principles of Taoism? (58)
We can change our bad flaws into something worthwhile, or we can get rid of them all together. 17. What is the Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way” according to Hoff? (67-8)
Wu Wei means “not doing causing, or making.”. It basically means to deal with and stick with the things, not changing it to make more benefit. 18. How does the quote, “Tao does not do, but nothing is not done,” explain Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way?” (70)
This quote means that he doesn’t change anything nor make any actions. Tao doesn’t force anything unnatural, but lets things work out in their own ways. 19. How does Tai Chi reflect Wu Wei or Taoism as a martial art? (87-8)
Tai Chi reflects Wu Wei or Taoism as a martial art, which doesn’t expend energy and where force is overcome not by combatting, but neutralizing. 20. Are you a Bisy Backson? (94)
I am a Bisy Backson, because I never stop doing something, where I am active all the time. 21. What is the Bisy Backson view of American history according to Hoff? (103-104)
Bisy Backson views the American history as a timeline of full of fights and wars. Americans have never been “comfortable” with their land. In their history, harmony cannot be found, but conflicts and fights can be found. 22. How does the Bisy Backson waste time by trying to save it? (108-109)
Bisy Backson wastes time by trying to save it by trying to find a way to save that time. 23. What is the Youthful Immortal? (108-9)
The Youthful Immortal is one who discovers the Secrets of Life as a youth. 24. What makes us happy in life the goals or the process we go through to reach the goals? Why? (111)
The process of life makes us happy in life, because the motivation or the goal helps us to put more effort into to reach our goals. When the goal is reached, the effort is gone, however we search for another goal to put effort into. 25. What is the significance of The Stonecutter? (118-9)
In the world, everyone has a person other than him/herself who is more powerful than him/her. Even the king is surpassed by someone else. 26. Explain the significance of the following line from the Tao Te Ching: “From caring comes courage.” (128)
Caring about someone else courages, or helps the person to cheer up. On the other hand, simply knowing many things or being clever does not. Therefore, to courage someone is to do with heart, not by using one’s head. 27. Where does one find Wisdom, Happiness and Courage? (137)
One fins Wisdom, Happiness and Courage from each of them. They are all parts of a continuous cycle. 28. What is the “Great Nothing?” (143)
People should be thankful for having something that feels like nothing, meaning we use them but do not feel their existence, and some thing we think are important are actually unnecessary. 29. Why is an “Empty sort of mind” so valuable according to Taoism? (146-7)
If someone has a stuffed mind, the person cannot see what is in front of him/her and cannot achieve the goal. However, empty minded people can see what the next step is. 30. Interpret the following quote: “To attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, remove things every day.” (148-9)
To attain knowledge, study hard. To attain wisdom, try not to show off and try not to talk about one’s knowledge. 31. Why is the child the highest stage of development? (151)
Children are pure and clear minded. They barely lye, and adults sometimes act like children, because they were once children. 32. Why may knowledge and cleverness destroy life as we know it? (154)
If knowledge and cleverness are used in wrecked things, they will be no help to humans, and people will be in disaster, not knowing what to do.
Why does the author choose a butterfly? A butterfly undergoes changes in life, just like humans do. A caterpillar is ugly, but once someone accomplishes Tao, they turn into a beautiful butterfly.
What is the importance of the water cycle? It's a cycle. Once you start from one point on a circle, you're bound to come back.
What is the point about the 'man raising melons'? In life, the position you have, whether it's nobility or farming, will change, so position in society shouldn't matter.
What is the author attempting to convey to the reader? In life, there are changes. People change both physically and mentally, and change is constant all throughout life.
Tao of Pooh: The Pooh Way
Summary:
In the Chapter, The Pooh Way, the author, Benjamin Hoff, mainly focuses on the idea of Wu Wei. Wu Wei means “without doing, causing, or making”. Through the story, he emphasizes that people should concentratd to be effortless. By recognizing yourself and working with the natural laws, one can achieve Wu Wei. For this, Hoff gives two examples to further explain.
First, Hoff relates Wu Wei to the story when every characters were playing the “Poohsticks”. During that, they find Eeyore at the river, floating on a river. Eeyore tells Pooh and others that he is waiting for someone to save him. Pooh decides to save him and brings a giant stone, hoping the waves created by dropping the stone would bring him back. When they dropped the stone, they first thought Eeyore has been hit by the stone and drowned. However, Eeyore successfully made back to the shore by drifting. In this story, Hoff stresses the fact that things will work out naturally without giving to much on it.
Another example occurs at Eeyore’s birthday party. Before Eeyore’s party, Pooh decides to give Eeyore honey and Piglet decides to give a balloon. When they were heading towards the party, however, Pooh unconsciously eats all the honey up and Piglet pops the balloon by running too fast and falling down. Even though their presents were all gone, they decide to give Eeyore a “Useful Pot” and a small piece of damp rag to put it inside the “Useful Pot”. Like Pooh, reaching Wu Wei will make everything work out naturally or through Inner Nature.
Thematic Analysis: The Pooh Way is also known as The Wu Wei. This basical terminology of The Wu Wei is to have no egoistical efforts and not going against the nature. Flowing the life like a nature, having no particular route ( meddlesome, combative ). It also means to do anything without causing or making the result. Another rule is to not avoid things when it comes to you, just like a a stream of water which does not avoid rocks when it comes to you. When something starts something is going to end. As conclusion Wu Wei life will be not struggle in his life to change how the person wants to, but just to follow how life flows.
“It seems rather significant that the character Wei developed from the symbols for a clawing hand and a monkey, since the term Wu Wei means no going against the nature of things; no clever tampering; no Monkeying Around.” ( Tao of Pooh , Page 68 ).
When a person learns how to work with their own Inner nature, and their natural laws operating around them will reach the Wu Wei. Then the person will work with the natural order of things with minimal effort. Reason for this is because natural world follows the principle which does not make mistakes. Which lead them not to struggle about their life since their life is good when they follow the Wu Wei.
Let the life flow it self and support it.
Changing the life and how it goes is wrong according to The Wu Wei. However not trying best on your life is wrong to. “But practically speaking, it means without meddlesome, combative, or egotistical effort.” ( Tao of Pooh , Page 68 ). This doesn’t mean to give no attention and motivation on choosing where your life is going to flow. This means does not change what is happening in your life now, but just to flow where your life goes. Choosing your path at first is very important. Struggling and trying to get out of the problem will get you nowhere but even more problem.
“Wu Wei doesn't try. It doesn't think about it. It just does it. And when it does, it doesn't appear to do much of anything. But Things Get Done.” ( Tao of Pooh , Page 75 ). In the Wu Wei idea, trying to solve things with knowledge is going to get you nowhere. Since it is going against the nature. However when you follow the way it is suppose to be them the problem will be solved.
Thinking too much is going to be the factor of going against the nature. If a person tries to hard, person will go nowhere, and the person could go to wrong direction. Leave what it is suppose to do and support that way and eventually the problem will be solved.
Natural Order, in Taoist belief, living everything where it is suppose to be and changing nothing is the best way. This reflects the to human do not try to change by stress and struggle but just to stay where it is until the problem gets solved. Not giving attention to the nature is supporting the nature, it is probably what human can do in best. In our words trying to change things might be bad however trying hard and support on way where things are suppose to go isn’t. Follow where it is going and support that, just like what we should do nature. Nature does not make mistake “Since the natural world follows that principle, it does not make mistakes.” ( Tao of Pooh , Page 69 ).
Follow and support the way things are going and try not to change anything where things are going. Changing things will cause trouble.
Discussion Questions:
1. If you didn't know what Wu wei was, would you consider Pooh's gift to Eeyore a gift of laziness? How do you think Eeyore would have felt if he found out that Pooh ate the actual present?
2. In the book, the author of often criticizes Confucianism, and their "educated" ways. What do you think Confucianist would say about Wu Wei if they too wrote a book like the Tao of Pooh.
3. Do you believe that practicing Wu Wei will prevent you from dying of natural disasters like earthquakes or tsunamis?
B Kim Christine Unit III Ancient History
Christianity in Korea
1. Why might Christianity have benefited from the push towards modernization and economicgrowth and eventually democracy?
Christianity might have benefited from the push towards modernization and economic growth and democracy because they were the ones who put a great effort in providing provisions for the people. As a result, the people started look at Christianity in a positive aspect. As a result, numerous people became devoted to Christianity for their good- doings.
2. What did churches offer that might have attracted followers during this time of tremendous
change in South Korea?
Churches offered numerous activities like sponsoring youth groups, Bible study classes and social events for its members, including music and sports activities. It tells its people to put effort into spreading the good, as in the religion of Christianity. Furthermore, the idea of Christianity seemed to fit and help the Korean people who are undergoing a very fast development.
1978
Shintoism Chart
Legalism Reading Questions
- In Han Fei's ideal state what is the supreme governing authority, the will of the ruler or the law?
The law is the supreme governing authority according to Han Fei.2. What are the "Two Handles" and how important are they to a legalist state? Why must the sovereign never surrender control over the two handles?
The "Two Handles" are punishment and reward. The government or the monarch rules with both of these handles. He punishes those who disobey the law with punishment despite their position, and he rewards those who follow the law. If the soverign let's control of the two handles, the bike will fall, and in this case the country. Those who disobey laws and have a higher class in society such as nobles will take control of the nation and corrupt the government.
3. What roles do individuality and private initiative play in Han Fei's ideal state?
In Legalism, individuality does not exist. Society is run by law alone, so there is no room for individuality of the monarch or noble.
4. Why do you think Legalism appealed to some people?
Legalism would have appealed to people that have little social equality. Legalism reassures the idea of equality and freedom among everyone including the low class. It gives them a chance to participate in the government and give equal punishment to everyone who disobeys the law.
5. Imagine a series of conversations among a Daoist, a Confucian, and a Legalist. How would each respond on the following issues: What is the purpose of good government? What role does morality play in formulating law? What are the qualities of a superior ruler? The proposition "Might makes right."
- A Confucian would say that a government must be a good model for society. The government should enforce the law and the government themselves should follow the law. When formulating the law, it should be based on morality and should be enforced and followed.
- A Daoist would suggest that the government and its laws should be based on the flow and peace. However they might also suggest that if society itself goes with the flow, then a government to run society might not be necessary.
- A Legalist might say that the government is based on the "Two handles". The government should punish the ones who break the law and reward those who don't. Legalists will demand for social equality and the laws should be based on the "Two handles". If there was a government were based on Legalist ideas, the government should be strong and always open minded.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Homework due October 6: Essential Quotes of Taoism
- In Lectures on the Tao Teh Ching, Lao-Tzu says, that, "The mystery of the Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels". Does this quote have an equivalent to in Christianity? Are there other parts of the Tao Teh Ching that remind you of Christian ideals?
I find that the "mystery of Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels" is similar to the Christian idea of Heaven. I find the line "That which has a name is the Mother of all things" is similar to the idea of Mother Mary in Christianity. However in Taoism, it refers to Nature, but in Christianity, the mother of Jesus and all of mankind.- See Passage 2, "Not honoring men....Not wanting rare things...Not paying attention..." How are does this help one understand how Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism found common ground and were not mutually exclusive belief systems?
The first part "not honoring men" referes to how Confucianist value the idea of respect and honor to one another. The second refers to Buddhism, because Buddhists believe that to desire is to suffer. The last part talks about Taoism and how Taoists believe that they should go with the Tao or the way. Although they have different philopsophies, they call from the same ground idea that a true human will purify himself from desire and respect one another.- In Passage 2, what do you think is meant by the lines, "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones"?
The phrase "relaxing the mind" refers to the Taoist way to find the Inner Peace and Inner Nature. It also is similar to the Buddhist idea of finding peace in one's mind to free yourself from desire of wanting things, just like the phrase "gentling the will". "Reinforcing the abdomen" and "strengthening the bones" is a Confucianist philosophy of how Confucianist should build their mind up with new knowledge to support the knowledge they know already.- Consider the last three entries from D.C. Lau's Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu describes government. How is this ideal different from Confucius' ideal? What present day system of government are you reminded of when you read this section? Do you think this is a good system? Explain.
Lao Tzu believes that the government should be carefree and not have many rules for society to follow because things will go with the flow. However, that's not the way things work ideally because it would only lead to chaos and more political problems like dictatorship. However if all the people of society were Taoists, then the Taoist idea of a "free" government might work. In Confucianist society, the government must be the model for the people. Without the government up to par, the people won't be able to trust the government.- Regarding the third treasure that Lao Tzu describes, what do you think is his message? Do you agree? What does this say about people who are ambitious?
Lao Tzu believes that people who are modest and patient about their goals are more likely to achieve it than those who have the same goal but are mean to other people about it because they want their success to themselves. I agree with this because it's like the idea of karma. What comes around goes around. People who do bad deeds to achieve their goal is likely to acieve it and then fall more quickly than someone who's kind and patient who help people along the way on their journey to success. Not all ambitious people are bad. There are some that are kind and patient and at the same time ambitious, but most of the time the more you want something, the more ambitious you get, and sometimes you might to bad deeds.Similarities:
- They give a guideline to the way of life.
- It gives people security in their faith.
Significance:
- It is a guideline to how to live ones life and what to follow.
- It opens ones mind to other opinions using logic.
- Both reveal the characteristics of a nation's people.
THE VIDEO IS ON CECILIA'S PAGE :DD
Project: (With Cecilia)
How does your religion impact your identity? Be sure to describe your journey (even if it is on-going).
- Young age : didn't know the real importance of our Religion.
- Now, we are starting to understand the significance of the Catholicism
- How we feel about our religion.
How does your religion impact your family?
- My grandmother
- Unity
How does your religion impact your society (and even the world)?
- Own way of thinking
- Security and hope
Video Script:
Four on a Log is missing. 0/5
The Tao of Pooh Questions:
1. What is the significance of the painting Hoff describes named The Vinegar Tasters? (2)
The painting “The Vinegar of Tasters” has lots of meaning in it. It represents “Three Teaching” from the Three Masters of China, K’ung Fu-tse, Buddha, and Lao-tse. In the painting, the vinegar represents the ‘Essence of Life.’ All three masters had different reactions after they tasted the vinegar, Confucius had a sour look, Buddha had a bitter look. Lao-tse, however, had a smile on his face because he saw the harmony between the Earth and Heaven.
2. What is the theme of life according to Hoff’s interpretation of Taoism? (5-6)
The theme of life according to Hoff’s interpretation of Taoism is happiness. It is because, from the Taoism point of view, the natural result of living with harmony is happiness.
3. How does Hoff explain the “uncarved block” metaphor? (10)
Hoff explain the “uncarved block”,P’u, metaphor by using Pooh’s name. He told us that they will not to try too hard or explain too much because it will just make us more confuse things.
4. What is the secret message of the “uncarved block?” (2
The secret message of the “uncarved block” is simplicity. Do not make the things complicated but think simply.
5. What was the main conflict between the Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff? (24)
The main conflict between the Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff was that Taoists saw Confucianists as a group of people who ruin their life in studies.
6. Which of Milne’s characters represent Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff?
Owl, Rabbit, and Eeyore represents Confucianists. It is because they study Knowledge for the Sake of knowledge. It means that there are no true meaning to learn something what is shown on the outside. Pooh represents Taoist because he has such a simple mind and thinking.
7. What is Hoff’s opinion of Confucianist scholars? (26)
Hoff’s opinion of Confucianist scholars is that he believes Confucianist scholars study the Knowledge for the sake of Knowledge, and do not share their learnings. They use difficult and long words in order to show people that they are intellectual.
8. What does Hoff say about knowledge vs. experience? (29)
Hoff says that knowledge and experience is not the same thing. He says that experience is much important than the knowledge because knowledge is not a necessary value.
9. What do most scholars blame for problems in the world? Why isn’t it justified? (32)
The scholars blame ignorance, or the “Uncarved Block”. The “ignorant” problems are caused by its own shortsightedness or lack of attention.
10. What is the difference between “cleverness” and “Inner Nature?” (38)
Cleverness has to do with gathered knowledge that deals with mechanics. However, Inner Nature has to do with the depth of understanding something.
11.Why is it important to discern your own Inner Nature? (41)
Not knowing your own Inner Nature could mean that you’ll mistakes in your life that aren’t easy to fix, such as marrying the wrong person.
12.Explain Hoff’s interpretation of the Chinese quote: “One disease, long life; No disease, short life.” (48)
Hoff claims that if someone knows their weakness and flaws, they’ll move on with their lives, and they know what to do when those flaws and weaknesses become a problem. However, if someone tries to pretend to be perfect, then eventually, those neglected flaws and weaknesses will cause stress and worries where you can’t take care of your problems or yourself.
13.What does Hoff mean when he states that we must learn to “work with Things As They Are?” (50)
When he says that, he means that you shouldn’t question things just to get empty answers, so you should just go with the flow.
14.What happens to people who do not listen to their Inner Nature? (57)
If people listen to their brain’s opinions which can be decieved, you are bound to make a mistake and make your life harder than it should be. However, if you listen to your Inner Nature, you’ll know what choices you should make, and your life will be much happier.
15.What is the Way of Self-Reliance? (57-8)
The Way of Self-Reliance has to do with how much we know about us, what’s best for us, and what we want to do with the good and bad parts of us.
16.How can we change ourselves effectively through the principles of Taoism? (58)
We can change our bad flaws into something worthwhile, or we can get rid of them all together.
17. What is the Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way” according to Hoff? (67-8)
Wu Wei means “not doing causing, or making.”. It basically means to deal with and stick with the things, not changing it to make more benefit.
18. How does the quote, “Tao does not do, but nothing is not done,” explain Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way?” (70)
This quote means that he doesn’t change anything nor make any actions. Tao doesn’t force anything unnatural, but lets things work out in their own ways.
19. How does Tai Chi reflect Wu Wei or Taoism as a martial art? (87-8)
Tai Chi reflects Wu Wei or Taoism as a martial art, which doesn’t expend energy and where force is overcome not by combatting, but neutralizing.
20. Are you a Bisy Backson? (94)
I am a Bisy Backson, because I never stop doing something, where I am active all the time.
21. What is the Bisy Backson view of American history according to Hoff? (103-104)
Bisy Backson views the American history as a timeline of full of fights and wars. Americans have never been “comfortable” with their land. In their history, harmony cannot be found, but conflicts and fights can be found.
22. How does the Bisy Backson waste time by trying to save it? (108-109)
Bisy Backson wastes time by trying to save it by trying to find a way to save that time.
23. What is the Youthful Immortal? (108-9)
The Youthful Immortal is one who discovers the Secrets of Life as a youth.
24. What makes us happy in life the goals or the process we go through to reach the goals? Why? (111)
The process of life makes us happy in life, because the motivation or the goal helps us to put more effort into to reach our goals. When the goal is reached, the effort is gone, however we search for another goal to put effort into.
25. What is the significance of The Stonecutter? (118-9)
In the world, everyone has a person other than him/herself who is more powerful than him/her. Even the king is surpassed by someone else.
26. Explain the significance of the following line from the Tao Te Ching: “From caring comes courage.” (128)
Caring about someone else courages, or helps the person to cheer up. On the other hand, simply knowing many things or being clever does not. Therefore, to courage someone is to do with heart, not by using one’s head.
27. Where does one find Wisdom, Happiness and Courage? (137)
One fins Wisdom, Happiness and Courage from each of them. They are all parts of a continuous cycle.
28. What is the “Great Nothing?” (143)
People should be thankful for having something that feels like nothing, meaning we use them but do not feel their existence, and some thing we think are important are actually unnecessary.
29. Why is an “Empty sort of mind” so valuable according to Taoism? (146-7)
If someone has a stuffed mind, the person cannot see what is in front of him/her and cannot achieve the goal. However, empty minded people can see what the next step is.
30. Interpret the following quote: “To attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, remove things every day.” (148-9)
To attain knowledge, study hard. To attain wisdom, try not to show off and try not to talk about one’s knowledge.
31. Why is the child the highest stage of development? (151)
Children are pure and clear minded. They barely lye, and adults sometimes act like children, because they were once children.
32. Why may knowledge and cleverness destroy life as we know it? (154)
If knowledge and cleverness are used in wrecked things, they will be no help to humans, and people will be in disaster, not knowing what to do.
Current Events:
Taoism Assignment One: The Butterfly Analysis
Tao of Pooh: The Pooh Way
Summary:
In the Chapter, The Pooh Way, the author, Benjamin Hoff, mainly focuses on the idea of Wu Wei. Wu Wei means “without doing, causing, or making”. Through the story, he emphasizes that people should concentratd to be effortless. By recognizing yourself and working with the natural laws, one can achieve Wu Wei. For this, Hoff gives two examples to further explain.
First, Hoff relates Wu Wei to the story when every characters were playing the “Poohsticks”. During that, they find Eeyore at the river, floating on a river. Eeyore tells Pooh and others that he is waiting for someone to save him. Pooh decides to save him and brings a giant stone, hoping the waves created by dropping the stone would bring him back. When they dropped the stone, they first thought Eeyore has been hit by the stone and drowned. However, Eeyore successfully made back to the shore by drifting. In this story, Hoff stresses the fact that things will work out naturally without giving to much on it.
Another example occurs at Eeyore’s birthday party. Before Eeyore’s party, Pooh decides to give Eeyore honey and Piglet decides to give a balloon. When they were heading towards the party, however, Pooh unconsciously eats all the honey up and Piglet pops the balloon by running too fast and falling down. Even though their presents were all gone, they decide to give Eeyore a “Useful Pot” and a small piece of damp rag to put it inside the “Useful Pot”. Like Pooh, reaching Wu Wei will make everything work out naturally or through Inner Nature.
Thematic Analysis:
The Pooh Way is also known as The Wu Wei. This basical terminology of The Wu Wei is to have no egoistical efforts and not going against the nature. Flowing the life like a nature, having no particular route ( meddlesome, combative ). It also means to do anything without causing or making the result. Another rule is to not avoid things when it comes to you, just like a a stream of water which does not avoid rocks when it comes to you. When something starts something is going to end. As conclusion Wu Wei life will be not struggle in his life to change how the person wants to, but just to follow how life flows.
“It seems rather significant that the character Wei developed from the symbols for a clawing hand and a monkey, since the term Wu Wei means no going against the nature of things; no clever tampering; no Monkeying Around.” ( Tao of Pooh , Page 68 ).
When a person learns how to work with their own Inner nature, and their natural laws operating around them will reach the Wu Wei. Then the person will work with the natural order of things with minimal effort. Reason for this is because natural world follows the principle which does not make mistakes. Which lead them not to struggle about their life since their life is good when they follow the Wu Wei.
Let the life flow it self and support it.
Changing the life and how it goes is wrong according to The Wu Wei. However not trying best on your life is wrong to. “But practically speaking, it means without meddlesome, combative, or egotistical effort.” ( Tao of Pooh , Page 68 ). This doesn’t mean to give no attention and motivation on choosing where your life is going to flow. This means does not change what is happening in your life now, but just to flow where your life goes. Choosing your path at first is very important. Struggling and trying to get out of the problem will get you nowhere but even more problem.
“Wu Wei doesn't try. It doesn't think about it. It just does it. And when it does, it doesn't appear to do much of anything. But Things Get Done.” ( Tao of Pooh , Page 75 ). In the Wu Wei idea, trying to solve things with knowledge is going to get you nowhere. Since it is going against the nature. However when you follow the way it is suppose to be them the problem will be solved.
Thinking too much is going to be the factor of going against the nature. If a person tries to hard, person will go nowhere, and the person could go to wrong direction. Leave what it is suppose to do and support that way and eventually the problem will be solved.
Natural Order, in Taoist belief, living everything where it is suppose to be and changing nothing is the best way. This reflects the to human do not try to change by stress and struggle but just to stay where it is until the problem gets solved. Not giving attention to the nature is supporting the nature, it is probably what human can do in best. In our words trying to change things might be bad however trying hard and support on way where things are suppose to go isn’t. Follow where it is going and support that, just like what we should do nature. Nature does not make mistake “Since the natural world follows that principle, it does not make mistakes.”
( Tao of Pooh , Page 69 ).
Follow and support the way things are going and try not to change anything where things are going. Changing things will cause trouble.
Discussion Questions:
1. If you didn't know what Wu wei was, would you consider Pooh's gift to Eeyore a gift of laziness? How do you think Eeyore would have felt if he found out that Pooh ate the actual present?
2. In the book, the author of often criticizes Confucianism, and their "educated" ways. What do you think Confucianist would say about Wu Wei if they too wrote a book like the Tao of Pooh.
3. Do you believe that practicing Wu Wei will prevent you from dying of natural disasters like earthquakes or tsunamis?